HOUSTON – Klein ISD is trying to figure out how students were sent fake emails that looked like they were from a staff member with part-time job opportunities, but were actually a way for criminals to access personal and bank information.
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According to a letter from the district’s executive director of technology and data services, the messages were received on their “Klein ISD Google email accounts” and on the surface, looked like they were from staff members.
“These communications are not legitimate,” the letter explained. “In some cases, students were asked to complete Google Forms with personal information and were subsequently contacted by text message, requesting sensitive information such as bank account details.
A district spokesperson confirmed with KPRC 2’s Bryce Newberry that one teacher’s account was compromised and a “couple dozen” students got the phishing email. That teacher’s account has since been shut down.
“A staff member’s Google account was accessed without authorization, and emails were sent from that account to students,” a spokesperson explained in an emailed statement. “As a precautionary measure, the compromised staff account was frozen immediately, and all suspicious emails were removed from our system. In the spirit of transparency, we have communicated directly with campus administrators, and messaging was sent to students and families to reinforce digital safety reminders.”
We’re also told the alerts were sent to all parents at the intermediate and high school levels, but no exact details have been shared, as of this writing.
“Please be assured that Klein ISD has security measures in place, and we are actively working to strengthen protections on all platforms,” the letter continued.
The district also reiterated best practices for families to share with students so they don’t fall victim to this cyber trap.
“Do not share personal information, such as your address, phone number, Social Security number, or banking information, through any online form or communication unless you have verified its authenticity. All official job opportunities for students will be announced directly by campus administrators, not through individual teacher communications or unknown accounts. If you or your student receives a suspicious message, please report it to your campus administration immediately. Our collective awareness and caution help keep everyone safe. We are grateful for the partnership of our families and staff as we continue to provide a secure learning environment.”
KPRC 2 is working to learn more about this incident and will make updates to this story as additional information becomes available.